Dr. Donald Keith Schubert Licensed Psychologist

Before becoming a psychologist, I spent time working in the political world, driven by a desire to make a meaningful difference. But when the outcomes didn’t align with my hopes, I felt disillusioned. The impact seemed too distant and impersonal, and I realized I wanted to help people in a more direct, human way. I thought about law school, but legal issues never truly interested me. I also considered becoming a professor of political science, but focusing on theory felt too removed from real-life change. Therapy stood out as a path where I could have a tangible impact—helping individuals navigate challenges and improve their lives in meaningful ways. It also appealed to my desire for independence. Becoming a psychologist allowed me to do work that matters while also being my own boss.

My personality naturally shapes my approach to therapy in meaningful ways. I’m a very practical and down-to-earth person, which means I focus on strategies that are actionable and grounded in everyday life. At the same time, I bring a kind, loving, and caring presence to the therapeutic relationship, creating a space where clients feel safe, seen, and supported. I’m both analytical and intuitive—I pay close attention to patterns, but I also listen deeply to what isn’t being said. I’m sensitive and attuned to emotional nuances, which helps me connect with clients on a deeper level and respond with empathy and insight. I tend to be forward-looking while also living in the present, so therapy with me often involves staying grounded in what’s happening now while also planning for the future. I encourage growth, self-awareness, and progress, but always at a pace that feels right for each person. My perseverance helps me stick with clients through challenges, and my hopefulness allows me to see the potential for change even in difficult situations. Overall, my personality supports a therapeutic process that is warm, respectful, and goal-oriented—rooted in compassion, guided by insight, and tailored to each individual’s unique path.

My life philosophy and treatment philosophy are deeply intertwined. At the core, I believe love is the purpose of life, and that loving, meaningful relationships are the most important aspect of being human. In therapy, I carry this belief into the work by prioritizing the therapeutic relationship as a space of safety, trust, and genuine connection. I see the healing power of being seen, understood, and cared for. I also believe that having purpose and meaning in daily life is essential—not only for myself, but for my clients. My treatment approach often involves helping people identify what truly matters to them and supporting them in taking meaningful steps toward those values. Whether someone is seeking short-term relief or long-term transformation, my goal is to help them build a life that feels aligned and fulfilling. Helping people in whatever way I can is a guiding force for me, both in life and in therapy. I meet clients where they are, drawing from a range of approaches to offer what’s most helpful to them in the moment. I also try to live—and practice—in a way that honors the present, learns from the past, and thoughtfully considers the future. This balance of presence, reflection, and intentionality shapes how I show up for my clients and for myself.

• California, Licensed Psychologist, PSY7599

I’ve been in private practice for many years, and during that time, I’ve also worked in a variety of settings—including private hospitals and VA hospitals. These experiences have shaped how I work and deepened my understanding of the many ways people experience and move through emotional challenges. In the VA system, I worked closely with veterans facing issues like PTSD, depression, and anxiety. That work taught me a great deal about trauma, resilience, and the importance of creating a safe, steady space where people feel genuinely understood. In private hospitals and outpatient settings, I supported individuals and families dealing with a wide range of concerns, including relationship problems, family conflict, low self-esteem, and life transitions. Over the years, I’ve helped people work through anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship and marital difficulties, family issues, and challenges related to identity and self-worth. I’ve also worked extensively with individuals recovering from substance use and addiction, often in the context of larger emotional or relational struggles. In private practice, my approach is always tailored to the individual. Some people come looking for short-term, solution-focused support. Others are looking for a space to explore longer-standing patterns and work toward lasting change. Wherever someone is starting from, my goal is to offer thoughtful, compassionate support to help them move forward in a way that feels meaningful and sustainable.